Accountability and Productivity: Retention Initiatives in the Illinois Community College System.

Illinois Community Coll. Board, Springfield.

In response to findings in a 1994 accountability report, and specifically data related to student retention, colleges in the Illinois Community College System were asked to report on local initiatives to track and improve retention. In describing their retention initiatives, 30 colleges specifically mentioned assessment and placement activities, with most colleges requiring mandatory placement activities. Thirty-two colleges described components of their advisement/counseling program, with several colleges indicating that they train a broader cross-section of staff for advising positions and use more computer technology. Eight colleges indicated that they use mentoring programs, while 14 colleges created or revised student orientation processes. Eight colleges noted enhancements to workshops and seminars aimed at student retention, while another 14 colleges had enhanced their student tracking systems. Fifteen colleges noted increased efforts to coordinate collegewide retention programs, while specific initiatives to enhance student services were described by eight colleges. Other programs included allowing students to change sequential courses during the first 4 weeks and early registration procedures. An appendix provides a description of retention initiatives at each of the 49 community colleges. (MAB)